UPDATE
: When Chris Caruso dragged himself out of bed Wednesday morning the buyer’s remorse was nauseating. The Big Wave had served in the Connecticut Legislature for 20 years, fought the establishment, took on development profiteers, pushed for Connecticut’s historic campaign finance reform, came within a whisker of becoming mayor in 2003 and again in 2007. He loved the light of serving as a big pain in the ass. He looked ahead to another run for the mayoralty, but this time he had an alternative, and a deadline.
Grateful for Caruso’s support in the Democratic primary, Dannel Malloy offered him a state economic development job that paid more than twice what Caruso had ever earned before. Caruso’s not driven by money. No fancy car, no fancy housing, no fancy suit. Yes, he’s a big man with a vice for food. Place a plate of spaghetti and braciole in front of him and it’s heaven.
On Tuesday Caruso had a decision to make. State law prohibits legislators from accepting an executive branch job while in session, a law Caruso had voted for to avoid the lawmaking body from thinning out during session. Reject the job and he cannot maximize his state pension. Financial security would be nice now that he’s 51. He had many supporters urging him to run for mayor again. A broadening message, beyond corruption, in 2007 would have handed him the mayoralty. Finch didn’t win that race, Caruso lost it. He went back and forth. What if he runs again and loses? As the deadline approached he accepted the state job.
The next morning Caruso crawled out of bed with a hangover, and he doesn’t even drink. No longer was he a state legislator, no longer was he a mayoral candidate. Caruso, as a baby in city politics won election to the City Council, served for a term as Democratic town chair when he was 26. Twenty years in the State Legislature. Now he was a civilian. He thought about changing his mind.
In politics everyone wants to be relevant. If you’re not relevant, what’s the point? Then he decided he’s still relevant. He’s got a nice state job, a base of support in Bridgeport where he could do a lot of good helping his home town, influence his replacement in the legislature (special election Feb. 22, according to Secretary of the State’s Office) and perhaps endorse a candidate for mayor. (Caruso and Finch have never been buds.) John Gomes, former Finch administration official, is an active candidate. Charlie Coviello, a multi-mayoral candidate, has formed an exploratory committee. For now Caruso potentially sees Mary-Jane Foster filling his void as a serious mayoral candidate, if she gets in. But if no one steps up as a serious challenger to Finch, in his view, could he revisit a mayoral run this year, even though he announced the other day he’s not a candidate? Maybe work the state job for five months and take a leave of absence to run one more time?
As Caruso was cleaning out his legislative office on Thursday he had pondered the question. In politics, ya just never know. It’s a symptom of buyer’s remorse that comes and goes.
Lennie Grimaldi announces the official OIB song:
www .youtube.com/watch?v=Yj2c3uo_b7Y
Joel, is Sly Salcedo singing?
Mary-Jane will be bringing it back Old Skool Style.
www .youtube.com/watch?v=RGeuX-W0XrY
Paging Carolanne Curry:
Do you think it’s smart or even necessary to place an OIB ad this early in a campaign? Whose idea or suggestion was this? I take it that John’s campaign is getting charged by the numbers of hits or clicks to his site. How much will it cost if I stay here all weekend just clicking onto John’s site? How much would it cost if–lets say when–a team of Calamarians or the Green Team all start clicking onto John’s site? What protection from this do you have?
johnmgomes.com/WP/city-employment-in-bridgeport
oops! I just clicked for the second time.
johnmgomes.com/WP
I think that makes it three. Clicking onto sites or links is a matter of choice, you can get the same results for free if you just put up the link when you blog here. Get my point?
Joel Gonzalez // Jan 7, 2011 at 3:04 am
To your posting
What kind of foolishness are you talking about? Clicks? Are you thinking we’re selling salami?
Don’t forget all you learned in Campaign 101 … Name recognition is the first order of business for a first-time or an unknown. Yes, we’re smart and it’s necessary. Not only OIB, but dozens and dozens of other outlets.
Hey, it’s not your money, right? Don’t get mad at me, I’m trying to help you (well not you, John) here. If you’re gonna respond, answer all the questions! Is the Gomes campaign paying by the hits to the site? I don’t think you got my point. If you are paying by the number of hits or clicks to your site, then you are at risk. Let’s say his opponent/s encouraged or paid people to click on your website for no other reason but to increase your cost, then what? Let’s say you get 1 million hits, clicks, or visits to your site by people who have no interest in knowing about your campaign and you have to pay the bill, that’s okay with you?
Let’s sound more “foolish.” Let’s say the election or primary is going to be a close one. You have the headquarters set up with phone numbers for people to call for rides to the polls. Your opponents have the numbers and for some reason phone calls start coming in. Next thing you know or become aware when it’s too late, you notice that many people hang up; are not home when the ride gets there; or the voter doesn’t live there but is still on the voter’s list, then what? These are tactics used when one feels they must win by any means necessary. But I’m just a fool who doesn’t know what he is talking about.
Joel, OIB doesn’t charge by clicks. As you point out, there’s too much potential for fraud, plus there’s value in a consumer/voter coming to OIB and seeing someone’s product and message.
Find a way to “subtract” Joel Gonzalez from your blog and you will have found a way to “add” value to OIB.
I agree Lennie. See how simple it can be when people just answer the question–I wasn’t “pointing out.” I offically endorse OIB as the best webzine to place their ads. You’re gonna make a ‘killing’ if you get Mary-Jane Foster to provide some foster care by placing her ads here.
Hey Lennie do you agree with Local Eyes’ OjOpinion (Ojo is Spanish for eye)?
Never underestimate the political firepower of John Gomes for Mayor in 2011.
You sound like you have been recruited. I know the answer, “it’s for my eyes only.”
ANYTHING can happen in Bridgeport CT.
linkbaitgenerator.com/index.php
(wink & a grin)
Caruso needs to understand the only reason he came close last time was because there was no one else in the mix. The bottom of the barrel. We had no real viable choice. Gomes is a genuine contender. Foster could make a decent showing. Hubler would take it away in a wink if he wanted. Chris needs to sit down with his order of 6 chili dogs, nachos with double cheese and 4 milk shakes and face the real reality. If the city really wanted him as mayor … he would have gotten elected last time.
*** Best of luck to Mr. Caruso in whatever he decides to do! ***
Chris Caruso, thank you for your fight for what you thought was the best for Bridgeport, whether I agreed with you or not you gave it your all. I never had a problem supporting you, best of luck with whatever decision you make.
I second that emotion!
I have to agree whether I agreed with Chris or not on an issue, I have always respected the man and respect his sincerity to serve the City of Bridgeport and the State of Connecticut. Thank you for your service Chris.
While I hold Chris in high regard and saw him as an upright guy trying to do the right thing for the greater good, I am very disappointed with his decision to take a position that has no power, low pay and appears to be a ploy to get him out of the race for Mayor. Bill Finch must be dancing a jig right now and John S. is singing Danny Boy. I know this is Chris’ life and he has the right to make decisions that are best for him but when you profess to care about the people and the city, you should at least consider the consequences of your actions and how they impact others. My question to Chis is “what were you thinking?” Did you seek advice from any of the people whom you strung along, who you told you would let them know your decision about running right after the Nov. election? And if they advised you to settle for crumbs did they consider that after taxes and travel you might end up with an extra $15K in your pocket and no power? Who listens to a consultant unless they are saying what you want to hear? If you are going to settle for a job, at least get a good-paying job with some level of responsibility. Not one created for you. Is that any different than what happens on a regular basis in Bridgeport? Cronyism??? And do we really care who he thinks can lead Bridgeport? Lennie was kind in his writeup, you should feel LOUSY today because you know in your heart you have made a LOUSY decision you now have to live with and it is the residents of Bridgeport who will decide who is the best candidate to run against Finch.
Great post.
Message to John Gomes
Voters like candidates with a personality.
Votes like candidates who exude warmth.
You have a reputation as a hothead.
You are running on a platform of anger.
Your picture paints the perfect image of who you are but it may not help you get elected.
Lose that photo and try putting on a smile.
Message to John Gomes
There is an opening on the Board of Ed for a Democrat to replace Pat Crossin.
You have stated your concerns over education and how important education is to you.
Maybe you should apply for the opening on the Board of Ed before you run for mayor.
Gain some credibility that people would recognize and appreciate rather than running with no credibility at all
Grin Reaper // Jan 7, 2011 at 11:15 am
Grin Reaper // Jan 7, 2011 at 11:18 am
To your postings
If I didn’t know better, I would think you skipped all your campaign 101 classes. Especially one section that talks about the fact that preparation is 90% of opportunity in campaigns.
You’re not telling us anything new Grin. But I sure like your optimism about this campaign.
Good Luck, Chris.
Message to Carolanne Curry
I had suggested that maybe John Gomes should consider running for Chris Caruso’s state rep seat.
I am now suggesting that maybe he should try for the board of ed.
You had suggested that voters don’t like politicians who can not make up their minds, i.e. Sue B’s flip-flop.
There was a greater lesson to be learned from this last election cycle. There is no substitute for real governmental experience no matter how much money you spend trying to tell the voters otherwise. Ask Ned Lamont, Tom Foley, Linda McMahon, Peter Schiff. All beaten by politicians spending a lot less but with a hell of a lot more credibility in their backgrounds.
Grin Reaper // Jan 7, 2011 at 11:24 am
To your posting
I think the person you want to direct your posting to is: Mary-Jane Foster …
I think the sleight of hand that removed Chris Caruso from Mary-Jane’s path may not be quite enough, Grin.
Bridgeport needs some Foster care!
2 easy ~ Caruso, Foster, Stafstrom = Loss ~ Reaper = fool
Riddle me this:
To all OIB “readers”
If you actually read the story on Webster Bank naming rights you would have noticed “A portion of the funds will also find their way into city coffers per the lease agreement between the city, which owns the facility, and Centerplate, the arena’s private operator, although an exact amount could not be provided Thursday.”
So, is it great news, good news or no news at all? If they are not upfront in telling us how much goes back to the city then my guess is not that much at all.
It should “ALL” go to the City.
2011
— + — = + Your 2 negatives equal a plus!
Go Foster! Go Gomes! Go anybody but mayor moonbeam. One Term Bill. One Term Bill. OTB, OTB, OTB! Even yahooy’s looking pretty good.
anna // Jan 7, 2011 at 1:23 pm
To your posting
anna,
A masterpiece of simplicity … Can we get it on a T-shirt? Get the billboard ready!
Off Track Betting takes on a whole new meaning with your “OTB”
Nice work!
TC all plow drivers have been instructed to go to your street to get brief instruction on how to plow not how to get plowed.
I can do both. Thanks.
Chris Caruso has/had to do what is best for Chris Caruso. He is not a stupid man and a state pension will take care of him when he retires. If he is to endorse a mayoral candidate, he would have to back a candidate who stands for the same clean house of the machine that he stands for. Ms. Foster would NOT be that person as she is another in the McMahon, Lamont, Foley mold of a rich person trying to buy an election. I say good for you Mr. Caruso for taking care of your future.
TC, the GPS must not be working. I saw plow trucks heading into Trumbull on the Bpt border maybe CC wants them to practice in Newtown. TC did they do your street yet? It’s 7:36 Charlie do you know where your plow trucks are?
Yes the plow was here last night. The operator was experienced and did an excellent job. Roads are completely plowed as are the entrances to the side streets. I know this will sound strange but no complaints on this storm.
The plow driver had to be Andy Valeri the Savior of the Public Facilities Dept!
It’s tomorrow and they still haven’t plowed my street yet.
Thought we are broke. Where did the money come from to make this GPS command center?
YOUR TAX DOLLARS$$$!!!
If Mary-Jane Foster runs, she will be an outstanding candidate and better Mayor. She can raise the money, her word is rock-solid good, she cares about people, she has created hundreds of jobs in Bridgeport, she is inclusive and will be well respected by residents, surrounding communities and elected leaders. It would be terrific if Chris Caruso got behind her. He knows she would act as a public servant, not a self servant. John Gomes should fold in behind her as well. He can run for another office and build his credibility as others have suggested. If this happens, she will be Mayor and Bridgeport will have someone who is ready to lead, can promote the City like no one else. Anyone underestimating her potential candidacy has not been out talking with voters in this city … this is about what is best for Bridgeport and I think she will do an OUTSTANDING JOB for Bridgeport. Finally.
Lennie Grimaldi says there will be dancing in the Streets of Bridgeport when Bill Finch is soundly defeated by Mary-Jane Foster. Rumor has it that RedWhiteandBlue will be the master of ceremonies in grand street gala and celebration. Grin Ripper and Grin Reaper are poised to battle for the body and soul of the loser, upon hearing the response from Bridgeport Mayor Bill Finch who stated, “She’s dead in the water.” Mojo has been selected to be the DJ at the event and has chosen the following song to open the celebration:
www .youtube.com/watch?v=aowSGxim_O8
Joel, did you take your meds today?
Lennie he took his meds, he just forgot his aluminum foil helmet.
tc, couldn’t he borrow yours?
Local Eyes get your own lines. If you remember I reminded you of the aluminum foil sale at the market in Fairfield.
tc has a monopoly on aluminum foil hats and he’s not anxious to share.
berkeley.intel-research.net/arahimi/helmet
Did you take the Hypogonadal remedy Santa delivered?
If Mary-Jane gets the endorsement, in fact if anyone other than Bill gets the endorsement, he doesn’t run. I would bet on that. His whole staff would back the endorsed candidate (hoping to keep their jobs). That’s why Bill should have brought in his own team for staff if for nothing more than loyalty’s sake. I would be interested in knowing if Gomes is seeking the endorsement or going to run as a petitioning candidate.
Hector, what if Mary-Jane thumbs her nose at the DTC and runs as an independent candidate? What does Finch do then?
Or is he seeking the endorsement from “Working Families Party.”
Working Family Party is the up-and-coming second party in Bridgeport. They will grow like weeds on Bridgeport sidewalks.
Could Working Family be “working” toward putting up their own candidate? I say, “Yes.”
*** Mary-Jane is probably not running nor leaving her cushy little job for “big” headaches @ city hall. It’s an uphill thankless job with many political pitfalls along the way for someone with the brains but not the heart! The city needs an outsider who’s experienced in the business of government with no real ties to the major party in Bpt to hopefully make real positive changes that will head this city in the right direction for the future instead of the usual “groundhog day” scenario, no? *** HERE WE GO! ***
Good points Mojo. I’ll add one more point in the form of a question which I’m sure everyone will have difficulty answering. If Mary-Jane Foster couldn’t successfully manage a minor league team with a budget of several millions to profitability, championships, and continuous growth, how can anyone believe she will accomplish such goals for the City of Bridgeport where she would be managing a Two Billion Dollar budget in a four-year period?
Joel, Mary-Jane Foster did an amazing job with the Bluefish given the challenges of a project like that in Bridgeport. The team is still going strong and her leadership got it through its most difficult times. I don’t know how much you know about running a business and bringing it to profitability Joel, but it doesn’t happen overnight. Mojo, she has the brains, the heart and the character to lead this city to its full potential. Her word is good. She is inclusive. She is down to earth and approachable. She has an even and fair hand. I could go on but it’s late. Keep an open mind …